The year 2023 marked a significant chapter for Immigration New Zealand and its dynamic immigration system. After grappling with challenges in previous years, 2023 emerged as a pivotal period, being the first complete year of open borders since 2019. The organization witnessed remarkable progress and faced unprecedented demands, achieving several milestones along the way.
Unprecedented Demand for Visitor Visas
One notable highlight was the surge in demand for visitor visas, breaking application submission records on multiple occasions throughout the year. This heightened interest necessitated the introduction of innovative visa categories, notably the Recovery Visa, aimed at supporting the nation’s cleanup efforts following the devastating Cyclone Gabrielle. Additionally, the Skilled Migrant Category was implemented to fortify the country’s workforce.
Collaborative Efforts and Dedication
The accomplishments of Immigration New Zealand in 2023 were made possible through the collective efforts of their dedicated kaimahi (employees) and collaborative partnerships with stakeholders. The commitment and hard work displayed by all involved entities were integral to the successful execution of the initiatives and the overall functioning of the immigration system.
Key Statistics Reflecting Accomplishments
Several key statistics underscore the scale and impact of Immigration New Zealand’s achievements in 2023:
- Over 1 million visa decisions were made, reflecting the efficiency of the decision-making process.
- The New Zealand border witnessed more than 11.5 million movements, illustrating the extent of international interactions.
- Border Patrol, a program featuring Immigration New Zealand employees, garnered over 3 million viewers, showcasing public interest in the organization’s activities.
- Mass communication efforts included over 150 emails sent, totaling nearly 3 million communications with customers and stakeholders. Additionally, five international marketing campaigns reached individuals in 38 countries.
Visa Applications and Approvals
The organization processed a substantial number of visa applications, demonstrating the breadth of its services:
- Over 519,400 visitor visa applications were submitted, with an impressive 81% approval rate.
- The NZeTA program received more than 1.4 million applications, with an outstanding approval rate of 99.89%.
- The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) policy saw 15,749 employers becoming accredited, contributing to the efficient functioning of the workforce.
- A noteworthy 79,000 AEWV applications were submitted, with an impressive 88% approval rate.
Other Achievements in Visa Processing
The organization also made significant strides in various other visa categories:
- A total of 46,703 working holiday applications were submitted, and an impressive 95% were approved. Additionally, 2,344 working holiday extension applications were successfully processed.
- The 2021 Resident Visa applications achieved an exceptional 99% decision rate, surpassing the initial goal and demonstrating efficiency in processing timelines.
- Student visas played a crucial role, with 90,067 decisions made, and a commendable 75% approval rate.
Resettlement and Humanitarian Efforts
Immigration New Zealand actively participated in humanitarian efforts, contributing to the resettlement of individuals in need:
- Over 18,400 Recognised Seasonal Employer applications were approved, reflecting the organization’s commitment to supporting seasonal industries.
- The resettlement of 1,507 Quota refugees in New Zealand showcased the nation’s dedication to providing refuge to those in distress.
- In addition, 567 people found resettlement under the Refugee Family Support Category, and 33 refugees benefited from the Community Organisation Refugee Sponsorship pilot.
Continuous Communication and Adaptation
A crucial aspect of Immigration New Zealand’s success in 2023 was the distribution of more than 40 amendment circulars. This ongoing communication strategy ensured stakeholders remained informed about changes, fostering transparency and adaptability in the immigration system.
During a conversation with StudentsHerald’s Founder, Mr. Jayaraj Arul Samji, he emphasized that the approval of visitor visas by Immigration New Zealand has increased noticeably. However, the processing of student visas remains laborious, stringent, and slow, often taking up to a year for approval. It is crucial for the new government to reaffirm its commitment to improving New Zealand’s international student enrollment. We need to recognize the valuable contributions made by international students, who not only bring financial returns but also play a crucial role in addressing skill shortages across various sectors in New Zealand. NZ educational institutions offer a broad range of programs, from bachelor’s to Ph.D., contributing both financially and addressing long-term skill shortages simultaneously.
